Sports

A New Dawn for Nigerian Sports in 2025

Published

3 months ago

December 31, 2024

As we welcome the year 2025, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of sports in Nigeria. The establishment of the National Sports Commission (NSC) represents a pivotal moment in our sports framework, and I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to revitalizing our sports economy.

The allocation of over ₦78 billion in the 2025 budget is a clear testament to the government’s dedication to advancing sports in our nation. However, it is imperative that the NSC learns from past mistakes and moves away from ineffective practices that have hindered our progress.

To our sports administrators, I urge you to implement a governance framework that fosters professionalism and accountability within our sports federations. It is crucial that we address the challenges posed by weak federations, often dominated by individuals who manipulate rules to maintain their positions indefinitely.

Currently, many federations including the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Nigeria Basketball Federation(NBBF), the Athletics Federation of Nigeria ( AFN), and many others are mired in dissent and internal conflict. The National Sports Commission (NSC) must prioritize addressing these issues as a first step. While we work towards securing Nigeria’s qualification for the next FIFA World Cup, we must also focus on cleansing our federations of ineffective leadership. Without this critical reform, the National Sports Commission risks becoming a monumental failure.

To our athletes, I encourage you to seize this opportunity to showcase your talents and bring pride to Nigeria. With the right support and infrastructure in place, I am confident that you will excel on the global stage.

To our dedicated fans, I ask that you continue to support our athletes and teams with the same passion and enthusiasm that you have always demonstrated. Your energy is a vital source of motivation for our athletes as they strive for success.

As we look to the future, I am reminded of the wise words of Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Let us rise to the challenge of transforming Nigerian sports and make 2025 a year to remember.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year, and may God bless Nigerian sports!

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Sports

Cricket: Nigeria To Host ICC U19 Men’s World Cup Qualifier

Published

21 mins ago

March 17, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria Cricket Federation , NCF, says it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council ,ICC, Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier.

The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals in Tafawa Balewa Square ,TBS, and the University of Lagos ,UniLag, from March 26 to April 6.

Uyi Akpata, President of the Federation, said in a statement on Sunday, that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent.

“Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos.
“Our nation is known for its warm hospitality and fascinating cricketing potential, and we are committed to making this qualifier a memorable experience for all.

“This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the growth of cricket in Africa and inspiring the next generation of players”, Akpata noted.

However, Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will be hoping to secure the ticket, having achieved same feat in 2019 and competing at the World Cup in South Africa 2020

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